Paulo Costa requests UFC release after denied interim title fight

Paulo Costa has formally requested his release from the UFC after failing to secure an interim light heavyweight title fight for UFC 332. The 35-year-old fighter, who holds a 16-4 record, claims the promotion denied his request and indicated he must fulfill the final bout on his existing contract. Costa expressed frustration over matchmaking, stating he has sought a fight consistently since May but was only offered short-notice or non-title five-round opportunities he found unsatisfactory. The UFC ultimately scheduled a vacant flyweight title fight between Natalia Silva and Wang Cong for the October 3 event in Salt Lake City. Costa maintains that his goal remains securing high-profile matchups to provide fans with more competitive bouts. He currently remains under contract with the promotion as he awaits a suitable opponent for his final required fight.

• 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Paulo Costa calls for release after not getting interim title fight at UFC 332